Five key matchups for Packers vs. Titans in Week 10

The Packers are in a must-win game this week as they travel to Tennessee to face DeMarco Murray and the rushing attack of the Titans. What are the key matchups?

1. Packers defensive line vs. Titans run game

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The Tennessee Titans secondary are ranked 25th in the league in passing defense and are allowing opposing quarterbacks to throw for 260 yards per game. Aaron Rodgers is coming off a near 300-yard passing game where he had three touchdowns and one interception.

2. David Bahktiari vs. Brian Orakpo

The passing game has gained rhythm because of tackles David Bahktiari and Byran Bulaga. The two have been a huge impact on the Packers passing game, and have been tested throughout the weeks. The eighth-year veteran, Brian Orakpo, would like to make his presence felt again this Sunday against Bahktiari and Aaron Rodgers.

The linebacker currently have seven sacks on the season. The last time Orakpo played against Green Bay, the veteran had one sack and five tackles total. If Bahktiari can keep Orakpo away from Rodgers, expect the Packers to have much success through the air.

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3. Packers receivers vs. Titans secondary

Look for the Packers to throw the ball a lot again this Sunday, as the Titans are ranked 26th in the league in receiving defense. Jordy Nelson came back to life last week against the Colts, hauling in seven receptions for 94 yards and a touchdown. With the Packers running game lacking, look for Nelson, Cobb, and Adams to have huge games.

4. Packers D vs. Marcus Mariota

Marcus Mariota cannot outperform Aaron Rodgers on Sunday, or the Packers will lose. The Packers are giving up 250 yards per game against opposing Quarterback’s and that ranks 16th in the league. Mariota is ranked 10th out of all QBs in the league, and is five spots higher than Rodgers. The second-year QB has 17 touchdowns on the year, but has eight interceptions. The Packers will look to force Mariota under pressure, and tempt him to make the big plays.

The Unknown: the Packers rushing attack. Will James Starks be healthy and return this week? Will the Packers still use Ty Montgomery in the back field?

A lot of this game will depend on whether or not Green Bay has some sort of run game, because the Titans will come prepared with their own. If the Packers can get something going on the ground that won’t leave Rodgers to do all of the work, they can keep the defense guessing all game long.

Can the Titans run their way to a win? Can the Packers pass their way to a win?

This is a must-win game for Green Bay, and by no means is it going to be an easy win. The Packers must come out with more energy, and look to get back on track.